I agree with many of you that criticism is good but bashing is never helpful (nor constructive).
I've been going to the theater since I was a child and have seen many shows. I've never left a show feeling hate towards it. Live theater has always brought me joy because of the proximity and energy of it. Even if I dislike a show, I can find something redeeming in it, even if it's just that it got me thinking about how it could have been better. I'm not afraid to voice my disappointments, but they're not dripping with vitriol.
I think criticism is a good thing, as it can often start really good conversations. But I do not understand the urge to say a show was perfect in every way or horrid in every way. I can see the flaws in my favorite shows and the good in my least favorite. My favorite critics are those that give balanced reviews. I don't see many movies, but my friend is a film buff and won't read David Denby's reviews anymore because apparently he just trashes everything.
I've only been reading this message board for a week or so, now, but I've found it a very interesting experience. Mostly good